The HIV/AIDS epidemic was a taboo subject when people first heard about it. Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson however, changed a lot of public sentiment with his public announcement in 1991. Magic was one of the first people in sports to go public about his infection. He created the ‘Magic Johnson Foundation’ to help combat HIV. The NBA legend has also worked alongside the US Government and the UN to spread awareness about the sexually transmitted disease. Following his infection, he was helped by a doctor who became particularly famous during the COVID-19 pandemic. This would stir some rumors a few months ago, but nothing that could take away from Magic’s big honor.

For his continued effort in fighting for the noble cause, Johnson was recently honored at a prestigious gala. The ceremony was star-studded, with various celebrities turning up to celebrate the Los Angeles icon’s efforts.

Magic Johnson poses alongside Angela Bassett and other celebrities

The 2023 Elizabeth Taylor Ball to End AIDS was recently held in Beverly Hills, California. Named after the late actress who spread awareness about the disease, the ceremony honored another person carrying on her work. Magic Johnson received an award for his 32-year-long effort in spreading information about HIV/AIDS prevention.

A few hours ago, Johnson shared a post with his 3.6 million Instagram followers. It featured the 5x NBA champion and his wife, Cookie, posing with some of the most elite actors and actresses from the world of Hollywood.

Magic and Cookie Johnson took pictures alongside Courtney B. Vance and Angela Bassett. The current generation may know Basset for her role in the Black Panther movies. The NBA legend then proceeded to move from one Marvel actor to another, posing alongside his longtime friend Samuel L. Jackson. The duo were most recently seen pulling out their dance moves during Johnson’s luxurious vacation in Italy.

Both individuals, along with their wives, were also joined by seven-time Grammy Award winner Gladys Knight.

In a caption accompanying the post, Johnson thanked Courtney B. Vance and Angela Bassett for hosting the event. He also thanked the 79-year-old artist for providing a breathtaking performance during the same. “We are humbled by the turnout and the fact this is the most successful Ball to End AIDS and most money raised in the history of the event!” Johnson added in his caption.

It’s amazing to see Magic receive his flowers. However, just a few months ago, he was targeted due to his HIV diagnosis.

Johnson recently became the target of fake news

A few months ago, various social media users spread false information about Johnson’s HIV contraction.

The unsubstantiated rumors suggested he was infected through a contaminated hepatitis B vaccine. The people also allegedly claimed that the study for the unproven contaminated vaccines was run by Dr Anthony Fauci.

Soon after the reportedly false information started to make headlines, the Vice President of Magic Johnson Enterprises, Alexia Grevious, clarified that Dr Fauci had no role in infecting the NBA star 32 years ago. Notably though, Dr. Fauci did help Magic following his infection.

Johnson maintains that he contracted the disease after engaging in unprotected sex. Despite the false narratives out there, Magic continues his fight for HIV/AIDS Prevention and will continue to do so for a long time.

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